With its new 1.6 TDI engines, Audi demonstrates once again that driving pleasure and efficiency are not mutually exclusive. With consumption of just 4.1 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers (57.37 US mpg), the A3 1.6 TDI with an output of 77 kW (105 hp) emits a mere 109 grams of CO2 per kilometer (175 g/mile). These excellent figures are made possible by efficient technologies such as the start/stop system and energy recovery. Performance is also impressive. The version with an output of 77 kW (105 hp) allows the Audi A3 to reach 100 km/h (62 mph) in 11.4 seconds and powers it quickly up to a top speed of 194 km/h (121 mph). The smaller 1.6 TDI delivers 66 kW (90 hp) and transmits 230 Nm (170 lb-ft) of torque. The A3 1.6 TDI can be ordered at once; the basic price is 22,550 Euros for the engine with 66 kW (90 hp) and 23,550 Euros for 77 kW (105 hp).

For Audi, downsizing means offering customers vehicles with a turbocharged engine and smaller capacity as well as excellent efficiency and handling. Audi achieves this by blending several components of the modular efficiency platform. The standard start/stop system is especially effective during city driving. As soon as the vehicle comes to a stop, the shift lever is in neutral, and the driver removes their foot from the clutch pedal, the system turns the engine off. The engine then turns back on as soon as the clutch pedal is depressed.

Yet fuel savings begin before the A3 even halts at traffic lights. Aided by the energy-recovery system, the alternator works hard to convert kinetic energy to usable energy during a vehicle’s coasting and braking phases before temporarily storing it in the battery. Upon driving off or accelerating the vehicle, the battery supplies this stored energy to electrical components – thus reducing the load on the alternator. This saves as much as three percent fuel.

In conjunction with the TDI’s common-rail high-pressure injection technology, these systems work together to facilitate fuel consumption of just 4.1 liters per 100 kilometers (57.37 US mpg). This equates to just 109 grams of CO2 emissions per kilometer (175 g/mile).

The 1.6 TDI with an output of 66 kW (90 hp) also offers good performance and fuel efficiency. With its high torque of 230 Nm (170 lb-ft), this engine version propels the Audi A3 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 12.9 seconds and a top speed of 180 km/h (112 mph). Even without a start/stop system or energy recovery, it sips a mere 4.5 l/100 km of diesel (52.27 US mpg) – thereby emitting just 118 grams of CO2 per kilometer (190 g/mile).

Both versions of this new four-cylinder turbocharged diesel with common-rail technology further cement Audi’s reputation as a pioneer. Despite lower displacement, fuel consumption is lower while handling remains as outstanding as ever.

The Audi A3 1.6 TDI is also available as the A3 Sportback. The extra charge for the Sportback versions is 900 Euros. The basic price is 22,550 Euros for the version with 66 kW (90 hp); the model with an output of 77 kW (105 hp) starts at 23,550 Euros.